competitions - line of site - thames opera house
can a building function as an early-warning system against catastrophic flooding? this competition allowed an exploration of the theory. the opera house is conceived as a multi-functional, inter-changeable building, semi-hemispherically clad in a glass shell which floats on the tidal waters of the thames. the building rises with the tide and with the use of altitude-sensing instrumentation and led lighting behind the shell is able to change colour from a subtle pastel shade to a deep red. by virtue of its ever-rising position and glowing red appearance it acts as a warning system against an impending flood giving locals within sight sufficient time to evacuate.
